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Looking for the fastest and easiest way to travel between Girona and Barcelona? Take the train. Here’s why:
- Quick Travel Times: High-speed AVE trains get you there in just 38 minutes, while regional trains take about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Affordable Tickets: Prices start at €9.40 for regional trains and go up to €30.00 for AVE first class.
- Frequent Departures: Trains run from early morning to late evening, offering flexibility for any schedule.
- Scenic Route: Enjoy views of the Catalan countryside, medieval towns, and even glimpses of Barcelona’s skyline.
- Convenient Stations: Depart from Girona’s central station and arrive at Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, or El Clot-Aragó.
Travel Tips:
- Book tickets in advance on Renfe‘s website or app to save money.
- For sightseeing, grab a window seat on the right side heading to Barcelona or the left side going to Girona.
- If you’re using an Interrail or Eurail pass, AVE trains require reservations, but regional trains don’t.
Train travel is not just faster than driving or taking a bus – it’s also more comfortable and hassle-free. Ready to plan your trip? Keep reading for detailed information on tickets, stations, and amenities.
Train Options and Route Details
Travel Time and Distance
The 62-mile route offers varying travel times depending on the type of train. AVE trains complete the trip in just 38 minutes, making them the faster option. On the other hand, regional trains take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Knowing these time differences can help you decide which service best fits your schedule.
AVE: From Girona To Barcelona In 29 Minutes!
Tickets and Fares
Booking your train tickets between Girona and Barcelona is simple and hassle-free.
How to Buy Train Tickets
You have several options to purchase your tickets. The easiest way is through Renfe, Spain’s national rail operator, using their website or mobile app. Tickets are usually available well in advance, so you can plan your trip ahead of time.
Prefer buying in person? Both Girona and Barcelona stations have staffed ticket counters and self-service machines. If you’re purchasing at the station, make sure to have a valid ID and a credit card handy.
Fares and Special Offers
Ticket prices depend on the train type and seating class you choose. To find the latest prices and deals, visit Renfe’s website or app. Discounts are often available for children, youth, seniors, and groups. Keep an eye out for promotional offers when booking – these can help you save on your trip.
Rail Pass Information
This route is included in both Interrail and Eurail passes, making it an excellent option if you’re traveling with one of these passes. For AVE trains, you’ll need to reserve a seat in advance, which comes with an additional fee. However, regional trains don’t require reservations. If you’re a frequent traveler, Renfe also offers multi-journey ticket options that might be worth exploring for added savings.
Station Information
Girona Station Guide
Girona’s main railway station, Estació de Girona, is situated at Plaça d’Espanya, about a 15-minute walk from the historic city center. Here’s what you can find at the station:
- Ticket offices: Open from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Information desk: Staffed during peak hours
- Luggage storage: Self-service lockers starting at €3.50
- Cafeteria: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Accessibility: Equipped with elevators and ramps for easy access
- Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the station
Barcelona Station Options
Barcelona has two main train stations that connect with Girona:
Barcelona Sants is the city’s primary railway hub. Located in the Sants-Montjuïc district, it handles most AVE and regional train services. Features include:
- Direct access to Metro Lines L3 (green) and L5 (blue)
- A variety of shopping and dining options
- Car rental services on-site
- A tourist information center
Barcelona França, located in the Ciutat Vella district, is a historic station with fewer train services compared to Sants.
From either station, you’ll find several transport options to continue your journey.
Local Transport Links
Both Girona and Barcelona offer convenient local transport options to help you get around.
In Girona:
- City buses L1 and L2 stop at the station
- A taxi rank is located at the main entrance
- Bike parking is also available
In Barcelona:
- From Barcelona Sants:
- Metro Lines L3 (green) and L5 (blue)
- Bus routes H10, V7, and 27
- Aerobus service for airport connections
- From Barcelona França:
- Metro Line L4 (yellow)
- Tram T4
- Bus routes V15 and 51
Both cities also offer integrated public transport tickets, allowing you to switch easily between buses, metros, and trams as you travel from the station to your destination.
Train Features
Seat Classes
Travelers can choose between two seating options:
Turista (Second Class)
- Comfortable seating in a 2-2 layout
- Reclining seats with ample legroom
- Power outlets available at most seats
- Overhead racks for luggage storage
- Foldable tables for added convenience
Preferente (First Class)
- Spacious 2-1 seating design
- Wide leather seats with extra legroom
- Individual power outlets at every seat
- Complimentary newspapers provided
- Priority boarding for faster access
- Dedicated luggage compartments
- Free snack and beverage service
Both options are designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible.
On-Board Services
Trains on the Girona-Barcelona route offer a variety of amenities to keep your trip comfortable and enjoyable.
Wi-Fi and Entertainment
- Free Wi-Fi available on AVE trains
- Access to the "Play Renfe" platform with movies, TV shows, and magazines
- USB charging ports for your devices
Luggage and Storage
- Spacious racks at the end of each car for large items
- Overhead compartments for smaller bags
- Reserved spaces for bicycles (reservation required)
Food and Beverages
- Cafeteria car serving drinks, sandwiches, and snacks
- Mobile trolley service offering refreshments directly to your seat
- Vending machines in select cars
Additional Features
- Air conditioning throughout the train
- Digital displays showing train speed and upcoming stops
- Wheelchair-accessible spaces and adapted restrooms
- Baby changing facilities in designated restrooms
These amenities are designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Travel Tips
Route Highlights
The Girona-Barcelona train route isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s a scenic journey through the heart of Catalonia. Starting in Girona, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the rugged Costa Brava, with the Pyrenees foothills providing a stunning backdrop. As the train moves on, it passes through charming medieval towns like Sant Celoni and Granollers, where ancient church spires break up the skyline. Nearing Barcelona, the scenery shifts dramatically, transitioning from rolling vineyards to the bustling cityscape. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Familia.
Here are a few highlights to look out for:
- Montseny Massif to the west, a striking natural park
- Historic stone bridges and aqueducts near Hostalric
- Terraced vineyards in the Vallès region
- The distinctive silhouette of Montserrat mountain in the distance
- Barcelona’s changing skyline as you approach the city
For the best experience, grab a window seat on the right side when heading to Barcelona or the left side when traveling to Girona. Early morning and late afternoon rides often provide the most dramatic lighting – perfect for photography lovers.
Summary
The train ride from Girona to Barcelona offers a quick and picturesque connection between these two Catalan cities. With frequent departures on both high-speed and regional trains, travelers have plenty of options throughout the day. Girona’s main station and Barcelona Sants are well-connected to local transit systems, ensuring smooth onward travel.
This rail route makes getting around Catalonia straightforward and allows you to enjoy the region with ease.
